What is Manuscript Writing?

What is Manuscript Writing?

According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, a manuscript (noun) is 'the original copy of a play, book, piece of music, etc., before it has been printed'.

Thus, a manuscript is either a hand-written or a typed composition in its very original form, which aims to be published. A manuscript is a document, which can be tagged as the final draft before any kind of final print or publication.

The process of manuscript writing follows a much-customised mode of engraving an idea into the mind of the writer. This is followed by the need for structuring and the ultimate penning down of the idea.

The manuscript writing can be exemplified by the author's original content or copy of the book, journal article, scientific research paper, or any other write-up, which is ready for publication.

While initiating the process of manuscript writing, make sure that you remain consistently conscious about the following aspects:

• Get Aware of Publishing Ethics

• Get Permissions and Acquire License

• Add Copyright to the Manuscript

• Refrain Plagiarism

• Proofread, Edit, again Proofread

Get Aware of Publishing Ethics

You need to get aware of the publication ethics. There should not be any violations regarding misuse of intellectual properties. Some of the common declarations that you need to consider while manuscript writing is-

• Making transparent disclosure regarding the potential conflicts of interest

• Making declarations about the involvement of any animal or human participants,

• For the appropriate maintenance of publication ethics, it is always recommended that you collect the signed ‘Informed consent letters’ from the participants and the authorities.

Get Permissions and Acquire License

Always remember that a manuscript must be legally protected. Your writing is your intellectual property, and it must be secured from any kind of future allegations. For this purpose, always get permission to reproduce an idea. There is also the need to gain a license in terms of materialising your ideas. Legal security for your manuscript can be obtained by making the necessary payments. However, at the same time, you also need to remain conscious about not stealing other’s publications or ideas.

Add Copyright to The Manuscript

Usually, the publishers hold the copyright on your manuscript, under their imprint. At this juncture, the publisher takes your permission to hold the copyright over your manuscript. However, if you deny giving your consent, then it is always recommended that you gain your copyright over the manuscript. For this purpose, you need to apply, pay fees, and get the copyright from the government. 

Refrain from Plagiarism

Plagiarism in your manuscript is never tolerated. While writing the manuscript, make sure that every word and every sentence is part of your original construct. Do not copy-paste any data or statement from former writers or researchers. It is the most sensitive violation of legal and intellectual rights, which is also subject to a huge penalty. Refrain yourself completely from plagiarism

Proofread, Edit, Again Proofread

As you complete writing your manuscript, it is high time that you spend enough time proofing your manuscript. As you do so, continue editing all those areas that need more expressions and precisions. The language and the content of the manuscript must get well scrutinised. Edit your manuscript for –

• to makes sense

• express clear ideas

• well-organized

• systematically synchronised

• correct sentences

• well-executed paragraphs

• writing style

• simple expressions to complex ideas

• engaging read

• grammatical errors

• syntactic arrangements

• absolute formatting

As you, accomplish the editing of your manuscript. Proofread again for few times, with regular intervals. Repeat the process until you are satisfied with the manuscript.

Finally, accompany your manuscript with a Cover letter and send it to your Editor or Agent for publication.

A well-narrated manuscript definitely gets the attention.